KUCHING, May 3: Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) president Tan Sri William Mawan says that every Dayak tribe will be given the chance to host the statewide Gawai Dayak celebration on a rotational basis.
According to Mawan, an inclusive celebration where all Dayak communities alternate in hosting the Gawai Dayak festivities is paramount as it could unite diverse groups and ensuring the success of the celebration collectively.
“Last year’s host are the Ibans. This year’s host are the Bidayuhs.
“It would be a successful celebration (Gawai Dayak) if we (Dayaks) take turns in hosting it,” said Mawan following the launching of SDNU Food Fair at Rumah Dayak by Jalan Satok this evening.
Mawan, who is also Pakan assemblyman said that following a comprehensive discussion with the respective leaders from various Dayak communities, SDNU plans to host an even grander event to mark the official launch of Rumah Dayak, symbolising unity among the Dayaks.
He ended his speech with “Enti kitai ka bejalai laju, kitai bejalai siko. Enti kitai ka bejalai jauh, kitai bejalai begulai”, which means: If we want to walk fast, we walk alone, but if we want to walk far, then we walk together.
The SDNU Food Fair will take place from May 3 to May 5.
Also present at the event were Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs and Special Duties) Datuk Wilson Ugak, Deputy International Trade and Investment Minister and Batang Ai assemblyman Datuk Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, SDNU senior vice president Christopher Gira Sambang, and other dignitaries. — DayakDaily
